The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Telecommunications Union (UIT) have written the first standard aimed at reducing the risks of hearing loss among video game players and electronic sports athletes. This standard was presented in the framework of the World Listening Day celebration on March 3, and it involves all governments, civil society, companies, and sports associations, among others, in a novel regulatory framework that protects children and adolescents exposed to the gaming industry.
WHO standard oriented to 3 billion people
The digitalization of society has led to increased participation of citizens, especially children and young people, in prolonged contact with electronic devices, both in music and video games, causing greater risks of hearing loss at an early age. For WHO, the solution is not to prohibit video games or electronic audio devices but to raise awareness among manufacturers, governments, and users, leading to viable agreements. This rule is oriented towards the awareness of the 3 billion people who are exposed daily to video games.
The growing use of digital devices in society, not only in terms of games and entertainment media but also the numerous devices that allow people to connect and enjoy games, videos, and more, is a key factor considered by WHO and UIT in issuing technical standards related to hearing due to video games and digital devices.
Initiative for a safe listening bears fruit
This rule is the result of the initiative for safe listening created in 2015, aiming to protect people in any context of exposure to environments with levels greater than 85 decibels. The WHO campaign seeks to raise awareness and prioritize hearing health, incorporating measures from homes, schools, and primary health care systems. The concern is based on estimates that over 1.1 billion people between 12 and 35 years are exposed to sound levels above the recommended ones, complemented by hearing loss affecting more than 400 million people worldwide.
Initiative proposals
The rule presented by WHO contemplates recommendations for users, parents, educators, governments, and manufacturers, so that all interested parties participate in the necessary changes to guarantee hearing health. It covers the use of all types of fixed and portable devices, from computers, mobile phones, headphones, consoles, and others. For manufacturers, the incorporation of volume control that shows the user exposure level and informative messages indicating when the player is at risk are highlighted. It also urges the programming of a “safe way” for the use of headphones with automatic passage to speakers alternately.
As for users, WHO and UIT recognize that they can be the closest responsible for their mental and auditory health after exposure to digital devices. Hence, the norm contemplates the suggestion of reviewing the safe ways incorporated in the devices, in addition to raising awareness about security measures for hearing protection.